Category Archives: BACKSTAGE at the Lobero

Opera Santa Barbara Returns
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Opera Santa Barbara at 25: Returns to its first home, the Lobero Theatre

In 1993 Marilyn Gilbert and the late Nathan Rundlett founded the Santa Barbara Grand Opera and the company’s first production was Die Fledermaus at the Lobero Theatre. Subsequent early productions included a company premiere of La Traviata – its first grand opera (1995), four performances of Carmen during Old Spanish Days, and then the “little company that could” launched its first full season with La bohème, Don Giovanni and Rigoletto in 1996. The company officially changed its name to Opera Santa Barbara before their 2003 tenth anniversary season with productions of Don Giovanni and Madama Butterfly. Subsequent years saw performances of Rigoletto, Ballo in Maschera, Italiana in Algeri, Faust, Cavalleria Rusticana, Pagliacci and Elixir of Love.

“This anniversary season not only celebrates the last 25 years but also documents our commitment to the next 25 and beyond. – Kostis Protopapas

Artistic & General Director Kostis Protopapas has pledged to nurture the future of opera by presenting contemporary works alongside the classics, to embrace change and to continuously seek new ways to share our vision and enrich lives.

Opera Santa Barbara closes its 25th Anniversary season at the Lobero Theatre with what is sure to be a memorable conclusion this season with Robert Ward’s “The Crucible” based on Arthur Miller’s classic American drama. 

What you should know
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About Laurie Bentson Kauth & the Brubeck Circle Residency Program

Last February, a new residency program made its debut thanks to the support of the Brubeck Circle members and one dynamic board member, Laurie Bentson Kauth.

Brandon Mowery, Lobero Theatre Director of Development, spent an afternoon with Laurie to learn more about this dynamic residency, and what fuels her philanthropic involvement with the Lobero Theatre.

BM:      How were you introduced to the Lobero board, and what is that experience like for you?

LBK:      Heritage Director Jim Dougherty called me up one day, out of the blue. Jim’s one of the most charming people I’ve ever met in my life! I’m really impressed with how much love there is and how excited and invested all of the Board members at the Lobero are.

BM:      How did you meet Derek Douget?

LBK:     My daughter went to law school in New Orleans and [in a nutshell] that’s how I met Derek, who is a jazz musician. It started as a running joke that whenever I would see Derek around Mardi Gras that I would tell him he had to perform at the Lobero.

BM:      At what point did the educational component for the residency start shining through?

LBK:     Established musicians in New Orleans are very cognizant of the new generation of kids in the arts. People like Derek look to foster these kids. I have to thank Administrative Director Marianne Clark at the Lobero and Kai Tepper at the Santa Barbara Bowl for their brainstorming and helping this to work.

BM:      What were the biggest takeaways from the 2018 residency?

LBK:      It was beyond my wildest dreams! The band embraced their role and made it very special. One moment that stood out is when they met a group of teens called the Jazz Villains, through Notes for Notes. The minute Derek’s band started playing in their tiny little recording studio, their faces were priceless.

BM:      What are your hopes moving forward with this residency? 

LBK:     I think we can get in front of more kids this year. It’s still amazing to me how it all came together! 

The Brubeck Circle Jazz Residency returns to Santa Barbara March 11-15, culminating with a performance by the Derek Douget Band that you won’t want to miss!

WATCH highlights from the 2018 Derek Douget Jazz Residency

Read the full interview in the Spring BACKSTAGE

The Lobero Experience
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Over the last six months, I’ve had the honor to meet many of our donors, patrons, and performers. Without fail, each expresses a tremendous love for the Lobero Theatre, and “The Lobero Experience.”

If you’re a frequent visitor, you know how it feels to be in the house when performers share personal stories about how long they’ve been playing here, and somehow it feels like you’re just chatting with an old friend.

An experience at the Lobero is about more than seeing a performance, it’s also about connecting and creating memories with others.

Our staff and crew work to create an atmosphere of intimacy, adding personal touches whenever we can. We view every performer, renter, patron, and donor as part of the Lobero family. This palpable quality of home, inclusion, and connection inspires artists and patrons alike to return time and again.

We hope you feel at home when you are here. After all, we’re family! 

Kindly, Adrienne DeGuevara, Asst. Director of Development

Celebrate 146 years of family and friends  February 22 – the Lobero’s Birthday – with #LOBEROGIVEDAY.

CAMA Celebrates 100 years
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CAMA at 100: The Centennial Season of Santa Barbara’s oldest arts organization

Beautiful music, exciting music, profound music—Community Arts Music Association has been bringing this gift to Santa Barbara for 100 years.

Born in the dark days following World War I, flourishing during the roaring twenties, and eluding demise during the great depression, CAMA has endured through a story of struggle, survival, and triumph as compelling as the world-renowned music and performers it presents.

CAMA’s roots date to the 1919 Civic Music Committee and the 1921 Orchestra Committee (Music Branch) of the Community Arts Association (CAA). Though they differed in approach, the two organizations were in accord in wanting to promote and provide the very best in classical music for Santa Barbara. It was the CAA that, in 1922, took on the monumental task of re-building Jose Lobero’s declining Opera House into the Lobero Theatre that we know today. Both organizations continued their work side-by-side until 1926 when the CAA Music Branch took on the work of the Civic Music Committee. In 1941, the Music Branch incorporated as a separate entity, CAMA, and continued the work begun in 1919.

CAMA’s presentation of live classical music performances featuring world-renowned artists and orchestras over the past 100 years is a testament to its founders and successors who have upheld their commitment to enriching Santa Barbara’s cultural life, and those who have supported this legacy. Today, CAMA continues to enrich the lives of the Santa Barbara region and its visitors to experience and enjoy classical music through live performances and educational outreach for future generations.

+ Celebrate the centennial season with CAMA’s Masterseries:  Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra (March 9), Garrick Ohlsson Piano, (March 30), Augustin Hadelich, Violin, (April 17), Mischa Maisky Cello and Lily Maisky Piano, (May 6).

A Salute to our Ushers
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We wanted to turn the spotlight to the real stars of each and every show at the Lobero–our family of volunteer ushers!

Herewith, four exemplary individuals who have been recognized as Usher of the Year:

  • “I have been ushering all of the wonderful music, humor, and educational and community events that this unique and wonderful theatre offers for 10 years, and it has been a life-changing experience. I am proud to be a part of the great Lobero family. Arriving early when the theatre is empty to help prepare for opening [the house], I’m still filled with anticipation at what magic is in store.”
    – Phil Parson, Usher of the Year 2014
  • “I find it incredibly difficult to put into words all of the gratitude that I have in my heart for being embraced and welcomed into the Lobero Theatre Family! It’s truly a very, very special venue. I still absolutely adore my favorite position of taking tickets, personally greeting and welcoming patrons with a smile to a place that feels like home, and that I have such great pride in being a part of!”
    – Evelyne Chezum, Usher of the Year 2015
  • “As a retired elementary teacher, ushering at the Lobero has allowed me to give back to the community. I am able to cross paths with patrons of all ages and work alongside people that I may not have met otherwise. The Lobero has introduced me to a wide range of talented artists–experiencing their performances is truly something I cherish!”
    – Sherry Shultz, Usher of the Year 2016
  • “I never tire of walking into one of Santa Barbara’s great architectural treasures; the Lobero is beautiful inside and out. As an usher, I most enjoy the patrons’ surprise and excitement on their first visit. The community of hardworking staff and volunteers is impressive–bright, interesting, dedicated, and positive. I have enjoyed experiencing the operation of a first-rate theatre and am most grateful for the new friendships and the opportunity to help.”
    –Linda Wolcott Moore, Usher of the Year 2017

Learn more about becoming an usher, and check out highlights from last year’s Halloween-themed celebration.

Meet Alan Kozlowksi
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About BACKSTAGE Cover artist

Known for his artistic vision and his deep understanding and love of music, Alan follows his passion for visual arts.

He began developing his skill as a photographer in 1973, which had led to the world of cinematography. Alan showcased his talent in several visually stunning films and critically-acclaimed films including, For Us The Living: The Medgar Evers Story and the majestic award-winning film Travellers and Magicians. Alan has produced and directed many music documentaries featuring such diverse artists as Ravi Shankar, Jackson Browne, Kenny Loggins, and Lionel Richie.

As a life-long seeker of knowledge, Alan began studying music with Pandit Ravi Shankar in 1978. He has performed with Ravi worldwide at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, and London’s Royal Opera House. Since 1978, Alan has actively documented the major milestones of Ravi’s life and has managed his visual archives.

Alan has been at the forefront of innovation in filmmaking for which he has received extensive recognition. In 1981 Alan developed a new technology where he filmed and directed a 360-degree, 70mm film for Envirovision Theaters. In 1993 he innovated, filmed and edited a simultaneous 10-screen feature presentation of Chinese culture for “Hawpaw Village”, a major theme park in Singapore. In 1984 Alan co-founded Pacific Ocean Post, a leading film and television post-production studio in Santa Monica, California, breaking new ground in the integration of digital technology and visual expression.

Through his continual travel, deep exploration, extensive relationships, vivid imagination, and unending curiosity Alan Kozlowski remains to this day on the path of discovery.

More at AlanKozlowski.com

Sip and Save the Planet
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After 10 years with the Lobero Theatre Foundation, Jessica Baggarly has moved on to greener pastures.

Jessica was a committed member of the Development team, who worked tirelessly to plan and host hundreds of events at the theatre.

It was not uncommon to see Jessica rolling up her sleeves to do the tough stuff–from moving tables to securing sponsorships, building relationships and signing contracts.

Today, Jessica is the proprietor of an environmentally conscious company, Tinkle Belle Diaper Service. Her lifelong love for the environment made an impact on the Lobero as well. Throughout her tenure at the theatre, Jessica to reduce waste. She was instrumental in implementing a theatrewide composting program through the City of Santa Barbara Trash & Recycling Program and put the Lobero on course to become a Certified Green Business in 2016.

Purchasing a reusable pint and using it each time you go to the Lobero–or the Santa Barbara Bowl–can help keep thousands of single-use cups out of the trash.

Let’s raise a pint to Jessica Baggarly, and a greener concert experience!

 

A Warm Welcome
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In June, Adrienne DeGuevara joined the foundation, and we couldn’t be happier with all she brings to the team.

Herewith, a few of her own words:

“It is my privilege to join the Lobero Theatre staff as the new Assistant Director of Development! For the past year, you may have seen me in the green room as hospitality coordinator, where I had the honor of welcoming and taking excellent care of our performing artists.

As a kid, I remember regular visits to the Lobero and consider them an integral part of my arts education. I have fond memories of going to shows with my father, who was a dancer and lover of music. My first introduction to opera–one of my father’s favorite musical genres–was at the Lobero.

Adrienne is celebrating her birthday on October 13 and asking friends to make a gift to support the Lobero Annual Fund.

If you are in Santa Barbara and can join me on my birthday the Lobero is presenting folk superstars, I’m With Her. It’s already sold out, and going to be an incredible show. If you donate over $100, I can offer a pair of tickets, and we can celebrate together. If you make a gift of any size, I’m happy to kick in free drink tickets to the next show you attend at the Lobero.

Either way, thanks for reading and let’s raise a glass to celebrate the arts and the Lobero with me on my birthday!”

Read more in the Fall issue of BACKSTAGE  or follow along with her fundraiser on Facebook.

Santa Barbara Revels 10th Anniversary Celebration
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Over the last 10 years, The Christmas Revels have transported audiences to Scotland, Ireland, England and Andalusia to enjoy the traditions of each time and place.

This year, the Revels will be staying home. 

The new show—An Early California Celebration of the Winter Solstice—is set in Santa Barbara in the year 1836, and is based on an actual historic event, when young Harvard student Richard Henry Dana took time off from school and sailed on a merchant trader ship up and down the West Coast. While anchored in Santa Barbara Harbor, he and his shipmates were invited to the wedding of Anita de la Guerra—and you are invited to the wedding–aka, the social event of the season! 

The original script is written by award-winning historian and writer Erin Graffy, in collaboration with Santa Barbara Revels Founder and Artistic Director, Susan Keller. The music is selected and arranged by Erin McKibben, an instrumentalist and choral director who led the talented Children’s Chorus last year and has taken over the position of Revels Music Director this year. She is assisted in her research by music historian Nicholas Jurkowski, who is unearthing wonderful material from that era, and by James Garcia, an expert in the music of this period. Stage Director Matt Tavianini draws on his extensive experience with Boxtales Theatre Company and his many directing assignments around the community.

This new show will include the beloved Revels touchstones found in every production of “The Christmas Revels” done by each of the nine Revels communities throughout the U.S. From the traditional musical and theatrical elements that enliven and enrich each performance of “The Christmas Revels” to the lively audience participation, “An Early California Celebration of the Winter Solstice” is sure to satisfy history and holiday buffs alike.

As Revelers like to say: “Join us and be joyous!”

The Christmas Revels: An Early California Celebration of the Winter Solstice

December 15-17, 2017
Fri 7:30 PM, Sat 2:30 & 7:30 PM, Sun 7:30 PM

President’s Message: Stats & Stars
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In this highlight from BACKSTAGE, Board president Amy MacLeod highlights stats from last year and gives a shoutout to some star performers.  

Welcome to a new season at the Lobero!

photo: Jackson Augustus

As I begin my second year as Lobero Board President, I am pleased to reflect on a wonderfully successful 2016-17 season. Theatre activity was up by nearly 14% from the prior year, the community enjoyed a number of (sold out!) performances by incredible artists, and we provided a professional performing arts experience to more than 2,000 local youth through our Youth and Community Outreach programs.

I am also happy to report that the Board and staff are making clear strides toward building an endowment for the Lobero, a critical tool for ensuring the long-term stability and vibrancy of this important venue. We are committed to making sure that we leave this theatre stronger and more financially secure for the generations of artists, audiences, and volunteers who will follow in our footsteps. 

As I look forward to the coming season, I’m excited for the opportunities and experiences awaiting us. Santa Barbara Revels will be premiering a brand new performance based on California and Santa Barbara history. We will also see the return of the AHA! Sing it Out program, which had their Lobero debut in April. Watching these teens overcome their challenges and perform fearlessly on stage is a touching and inspiring experience, and we are happy to be the new hosts for their annual show.

I hope you will join me often at the theatre and share another great season.

Amy MacLeod, 
Lobero Board President

 

Take a look at the 2016-2017 Annual Report: